COASTRA - Coastal management strategy for Southwest Finland

The project has enabled the drawing up of an Integrated Coastal Zone Management strategy (ICZM) for Southwest Finland. This included taking stock of existing data, networking with relevant stakeholders, which has contributed to the conflict assessment between environmental objectives and economic activities in the area. The strategy was piloted in the Uusikaupunki area. The project results have are focused on ensuring socio-economic aspects and environmental sustainability. An innovative aspect of the project lay in making the best use of up-to-date GIS information and aerial photos for a more detailed identification of conflict points in the area, and the extensive inclusion of regional stakeholders and the general public to ensure a shared understanding of integrated coastal zone management. The project has served as a demonstration pilot for the compilation of the Finnish national ICZM strategy.